Mr Kircher ruled out a fifth term yesterday .
He said knowing he would be 65 at the end of another term if he returned this October had driven his decision to go.
"It’s been really challenging the last two terms.
"There’s a lot of mayors around the country that have found that challenging, in the constant change from government.
"There’s part of me that thinks yes, I could do another term. I’ve had a lot of positive support to stand again."
But the need to weigh life beyond the mayoralty countered that.
"It’s the right time. I’ve still got time to go and do a next step before I retire.
"My family has been very supportive to me stepping down because they know how challenging it’s been — and how hard it’s been."
When asked if he had been a hands-on, behind-the-scenes operator, Mr Kircher said his style might be characterised as that of an enabler.
"I’ve tried to do things with a very much positive frame of mind, in seeing council as an enabler," he said.
"It’s been about flexibility, about focusing on the outcomes in trying to look after our community as best as possible."
Mr Kircher said the past few years had been particularly difficult, due to
the impact of Covid-19 on the community, followed by endless central government reforms impacting local government.
Despite all that, Waitaki was well placed for the future.
Mr Kircher said there was "a striking difference" between the Waitaki of 2001, when he first came to the council table, and now after a dozen years as mayor.
"I’ve been able to be part of things that have set up Waitaki as a better place."
The mayoral role had seen him give "my all" over nearly 12 years, he said yesterday.
"It’s been an incredible privilege to serve the Waitaki community, and while there will be time later for more reflection, right now the work continues.
"I remain fully committed to the job, and I’ll keep giving it everything I’ve got while I am still the mayor for Waitaki."
At this point only one candidate is standing for the Waitaki mayoralty.
Melanie Tavendale, Mr Kircher’s former deputy, stood down in 2022 and announced her mayoral candidacy
on March 10, amid talk Mr Kircher would stand aside to give her "a clear run".
Both have previously denied to the Otago Daily Times that was ever the case.
Yesterday, Ms Tavendale said she was genuinely surprised at Mr Kircher’s announcement.
"I had no idea whether he was going to stand or not," she said.
Having previously worked closely with him it was clear he had poured himself into the role.
"Gary had given his all for the last four terms. He’s been incredibly dedicated."
Ms Tavendale hoped for some genuine competition for the mayoralty.
"I think there will be more people come out of the woodwork and I think having a bit of competition is important — that you have a mandate if you get in."
